Pultec EQM-1A Mastering Equalizer

Ever since Pultec reissued their iconic EQP-1A in 2014, fans have been begging for a mastering version of the legendary passive equalizer. Finally, the wait is over —introducing the Pultec EQM-1A Mastering Equalizer! Equipped with full-range progressive-taper Elma Switch stepped controls for fine-adjustments, the EQM-1A is the ultimate mastering equalizer.

Unique Pultec Design

The EQM-1A is a three-space rack mount unit that features a two-band design capable of boosting low and high frequencies without affecting the midrange. With the ability to boost and cut at the same time, the Pultec EQM-1A gives users multiple options of how to treat an instrument.

Pultec’s EQM-1A mastering equalizer offers all of the same great features from the original program equalizer from the 50s, with a few modern innovations for improved versatility. The BOOST/ATTEN controls provide 0.5 dB steps for the initial ~50% of rotation, and then increase step size as rotation is increased from 50% - 100% to provide fine control.

Capable of subtle boosts and cuts for mastering and mix-bus applications, the EQM-1A makes it easier than ever to dial in the perfect sound on any mix. EQM-1A also delivers the full range (16 - 20 dB) of BOOST/ATTEN for more aggressive tracking applications.

The Legacy of Pultec

The Pultec EQP-1A was originally introduced in 1951 as the world’s first passive program equalizer. Designed by Pulse Techniques’ Eugene Shenk and Ollie Summerland, each EQP-1A equalizer was often built to order, using hand-selected components to achieve a one-of-a-kind sound.

The original design utilized a passive circuit and a tube amp for making up the 16 dB of gain lost caused by passive EQs. By introducing tube amps into a passive EQ circuit, the Pultec is able to achieve deep lows and airy highs unlike any other equalizer.